For most runners, a “challenging course” usually means a steep hill or some humid weather. But at the Lewa Safari Marathon, “challenging” means navigating dirt tracks 5,500 feet above sea level while a spotter helicopter keeps a watchful eye on a nearby pride of lions.
Yesterday, March 25, 2026, the 26th edition of the “World’s Wildest Challenge” was officially launched in Nairobi. Scheduled for Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, this year’s race isn’t just about the sweat—it’s about the Sh15 million target set to protect Kenya’s most iconic and endangered species.
The Course: Savannah, Dust, and the Big Five
There are no fences at Lewa. When you line up for the full marathon (42km), half-marathon (21km), or the 10km executive run, you are a guest in the home of over 80 black and white rhinos and a massive population of Grevy’s zebras.
The route consists of two 21km loops across sweeping savannah plains and through thick acacia woodland. With the average temperature hitting 16°C and the thin mountain air testing every lung cell, it’s easy to see why Runner’s World consistently ranks this as one of the top ten “must-do” races on the planet.
Defending the Crown: Lemayan and Kwambai Return
The professional field is already heating up. Samuel Lemayan, the 32-year-old marathoner from Maralal, has confirmed he is back in training at his Iten base to defend his men’s title.
On the women’s side, all eyes are on Mercy Kwambai. After a commanding performance last year where she clocked 2:47:17, Kwambai is hunting for a historic “three-peat.” Both athletes are using local and international circuits to gauge their fitness before heading to the Laikipia dirt in June.
More Than a Race: The KSh1.3 Billion Impact
Since its inception in 2000, the marathon (organized by Tusk and the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy) has raised over KSh1.3 billion. These aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet; the funds have directly led to:
• Wildlife Recovery: A doubling of the Hawksbill turtle population and a significant rise in young Grevy’s zebras.
• Community Health: Over 40,000 clinic visits funded for rural communities living alongside the conservancy.
• Education: Dozens of school programs and bursaries for children in northern Kenya.
Safaricom, a long-term partner for 26 years, has already injected Sh20 million into this year’s edition, with a specific focus on bringing “Gen Z” into the conservation fold to ensure the event’s longevity.
Important Dates for Runners
• International Registration: Open now.
• Kenya & East Africa Registration: Opens tomorrow, Friday, March 27, 2026.
• Pre-Race Activation: April 11 at Karura Forest, Nairobi.
• Race Day: Saturday, June 27, 2026.
